Does MDMA affect the immune system?
MDMA weakens the immune system. Specifically, it decreases the CD4 T-cell count (cells that help wall off and destroy toxic materials and help develop antibody-secreting cells). This is similar to the effects of drinking about 4-5 alcoholic drinks. It increases the NK (Natural Killer) cell count. NK cells help kill certain tumors, defend against invading pathogens, and help regulate blood formation. MDMA decreases the production of some pro-inflammatory cytokines (substances that stimulate inflammatory response thereby helping the immune system after a trauma) and increases the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines (substances that stimulate the regulation and stopping of inflammatory response) (Pacifici et al. 1999); (Pacifici et al. 2000); (Pacifici et al. 2001).
